Emily Leach

Photo of Emily Leach

Instructor in Austin, Texas, USA

Rated 4.94/5 by 6 students

Level V Captain Rank Qualified Sailing Instructor / Assessor

My passion is helping sailors build confidence by understanding how and why a boat responds the way it does. I've found that most people don't struggle because sailing is difficult—they struggle because nobody has connected the mechanics of sailing to the way they naturally learn. My background in engineering taught me how to break complex systems into understandable pieces, and that's exactly how I approach sailing instruction. Whether we're working on sail trim, docking, or navigation, I focus on helping students understand what's happening, why it's happening, and how to respond with confidence. I find students learn one-on-one to tailor instruction to their goals and learning style. Many sailors begin training with me on Lake Travis before progressing to larger boats and more challenging conditions. My goal isn't just to teach sailing skills—it's to help create confident who trust their judgment and are ready for their own adventures.

Credentials

NauticEd Credentials

Professional Instructor Assessor Professional Instructor Assessor
Peer Assessed Peer Assessed
NauticEd System Knowledge Expert NauticEd System Knowledge Expert
Transformational Instructor Course Graduate Transformational Instructor Course Graduate
Woman Instructor Woman Instructor
American National Standards Instructor/Assessor American National Standards Instructor/Assessor
  • Level V Captain Rank Qualified Sailing Instructor / Assessor
  • American National Standards Instructor/Assessor

Other Credentials

NauticEd Captain and certified Sailing Level Captain (SLC) 20+ years of sailing experience throughout the Texas Gulf Coast and Caribbean, including extensive bareboat chartering and skippering experience. I have a background in engineering with a strong focus on problem-solving, and breaking technical concepts into practical, easy-to-understand lessons.

Publications

Read the Expert Article Emily Leach has written

Location

Lake Travis (Austin, Texas)

16406 Stewart Rd Austin, TX 78734 USA Map it
When training in the Austin, Texas area, you'll be learning aboard a well-equipped 27' Pearson monohull, perfect for mastering essential sailing skills in a hands-on environment. This classic sailboat provides a stable and responsive platform, ideal for beginners and experienced sailors alike.
Notes: For those seeking a more adventurous learning location, my expertise is available for hire throughout the Caribbean (my favorite areas are BVI and Grenada). Simply choose your ideal location, and I'll bring top-tier instruction directly to you. Your sailing dreams are unique, and I'm here to help make them a reality.

Training and assessment

Sail Practical Training Courses

Notes: In the Austin area, your training takes place aboard a well-equipped 28' Pearson monohull. This classic sailboat offers a stable and responsive platform, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced sailors to master essential skills in a hands-on environment.

CONTACT WITH QUESTIONS OR TO SCHEDULE TRAINING

As a bonus "thank you", we'll give you two FREE sailing courses and electronic logbook!
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[email protected]
+1 512-270-8791
https://www.sailsandgrace.com
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Feedback from previous students

Jim F., USA, NY, Lancaster at 2026, Mar 28
Practical Competence of Sail - Bareboat Charter Master

Training date: 2026, 28 Mar

I spent a day prior to the actual assessment with Emily out on the water. The best decision I could have made, and she had suggested it too. I was 100% ready for the assessment and I attest that totally to Emily. She is a gifted instructor with a calm way about her. Her depth of knowledge is superior. Hoping to attain the SLC with her next.
Nora D., USA, IA, Muscatine at 2026, Apr 21
Practical Competence of Sail - Qualified Crew Member

Training date: 2025, 18 Dec

Will definitely be back for additional instruction!!
Jim F., USA, NY, Lancaster at 2024, Oct 04
Practical Competence of Sail - Skipper Large Sailboat

Training date: 2024, 04 Oct

Emily is so passionate about sailing and it truly reflects how she teaches. Clear explanations on what we were doing, and if she felt I didn’t do the maneuver to a 100% she would give me excellent feedback and have me redo it. Her approach and knowledge is at another level. Communicates so well and is incredible patient. Was a whirl wind of intense but always enjoyable work and I came away from our time a much more competent and knowledgeable skipper, Thank you Emily!!!
Morgan M., USA, NC, Hillsborough at 2024, May 24
Practical Competence of Sail - Skipper Large Sailboat

Training date: 2024, 18 Apr

Emily was an awesome instructor! Over my 3 days spent with her I feel that my skills and abilities increased dramatically. Moreover, I feel my confidence grew! Emily created a comfortable, safe environment for learning where I was able to safely grow. I would highly recommend Emily for anyone learning to sail or up their abilities!
George S., USA, IN, Brazil at 2024, Feb 11
Practical Competence of Sail - Skipper Large Sailboat

Training date: 2024, 09 Feb

she honestly explained to me how she would not allow me to go to certain areas of the boat and why. She would adapt methods of sailing to my physical abilities. She listens to the student without judgement.
Jackie B., USA, NC, Waynesville at 2024, Feb 01
Practical Competence of Sail - Bareboat Charter Master

Training date: 2024, 01 Feb

Emily was great from getting the charter organized to ensuring we had opportunities to practice, improve, and hone our skills during the week. Feedback was clear, consistent, fair, and directive with suggestions and examples given for demonstrating desired skills in subsequent days/exercises. I would highly recommend NauticEd instruction to anyone truly interested in advancing in the sport and accelerating learning.
Wayne B., USA, NC, Waynesville at 2024, Feb 02
Practical Competence of Sail - Bareboat Charter Master

Training date: 2024, 01 Feb

A wonderful experience on a great boat in a beautiful location. Emily adapted our curriculum to the conditions and tailored it to focus on our needs while encouraging us to exceed our expectations while having a great time. I highly recommend her instruction and competence.
Showing last 7 reviews.